New York Yankees have brewing feel good story in spring training

The New York Yankees bullpen is not nearly as settled as it had been in years past. Due to injuries and payroll limitations, the Yankees need to find arms in different places. Even those non-roster invitees, who were nothing more than camp fodder in the past, could play an important part on the roster if they impress.

There is one possible feel good story who is doing just that. On Thursday, Lucas Luetge continued his ridiculous spring training performance, putting himself squarely on the radar for a spot in the bullpen.

Lucas Luetge a feel good story for New York Yankees

There was a time when Luetge appeared to be a key part of the Mariners’ future. A Rule V draft pick, he was a solid piece in Seattle’s bullpen in 2012 and 2013, posting a decent 4.40 ERA and a 1.532 WHiP in his 77.2 innings. However, he appeared in only 13 major league games after 2013, bouncing around the minors in five different organizations before signing with the Yankees.

While his major league track record may not be overly impressive, Luetge is dominating in spring training. He has allowed just two hits in his four innings, striking out ten batters. His fastball may not impress with its velocity, but Leutge’s curve has been absolutely unhittable thus far.

The reason for that improvement has been his gains in spin rate. He may have been one of the players helped most by the Yankees’ “Gas Station,” as he has seen his spin rates jump from their previous norms. His fastball has averaged roughly 2800 RPM thus far, resulting in enough movement where his lack of velocity is irrelevant. Luetke’s curve, meanwhile, is averaging approximately 2900 RPM, helping to make it one of the more ridiculous offerings seen in spring training.

There is a lot of time left before Opening Day. Luetke may well just be having a great stretch before hitters have their timing down. And he has not exactly faced the stiffest of competition. Nonetheless, the Yankees need help in the bullpen, and Luetke is performing at a level that could be a major boost for New York’s bullpen.

Lucas Luetge has been a feel good story for the New York Yankees thus far in spring training. If it continues, he could find himself on the Opening Day roster.